Senior ETF strategist Ambar Bajaj is promoted to head of Americas ETF product research and strategy role
Franklin Templeton is giving its exchange-traded fund (ETF) products and strategy a boost with a new leader.
Ambar Bajaj becomes head of Americas ETF product research and strategy bringing more than 15 years of financial services experience to the role which the firm says will have a strong focus on Canada.
The global investment management firm has recently expanded its Canadian footprint with the acquisition of Putnam Investments which is being sold by the Desmarais family in a deal expected to close in the third quarter of 2023.
Previously Bajaj was senior ETF strategist at the firm but his years of expertise includes roles at WisdomTree and Legg Mason.
His new role includes managing product strategy for Franklin’s index-tracking ETFs, developing the pipeline for its ETF strategy, and managing ETF product implementation in the Americas.
He will also be overseeing the firm’s cross-listing and registration initiatives in Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Mexico, and Peru.
Canada focus
Duane Green, president and CEO, Franklin Templeton Canada, said that Bajaj will be critical in supporting the firm’s growth across the Canadian marketplace.
“We are focused on providing Canadian investors with expanded investment capabilities through a variety of fund vehicles – including a global suite of active, smart beta and passive ETFs – that enable investors to pursue their desired investment outcomes,” he said.
Bajaj is based in Pennsylvania but will make regular visits to Franklin Templeton’s Canadian and Latin American offices.
